Keeping Halloween Safe

Local law enforcement is reminding tri-parish residents to make this Halloween memorable by being safe and to do so by following some simple precautionary steps:

• Have a plan. Like many events, family preparedness can help in knowing where children are and where they will be going in case of an emergency. Plot out a route with older children, so parents have a general idea of where they can be located in an emergency. This also helps parents obtain an expected time of arrival back home. Talk about appropriate Halloween behavior with children.

• Of course, small children should not be left to trick or treat by themselves. It’s just not fun.

• Stand out in the dark. Add accessories to costumes that make kids visible while traveling along sidewalks and roadways, simply by adding reflective strips or having a reflective bag or by wearing bright colors.

• A light source is a means of safety, not only signaling other walkers or motorists of a child’s location, but also to help see bumps or cracks that could cause a fall. Never use candles, always a battery operated lantern or flashlight. Glow sticks are a fun option.

• Some costume ideas are good for school but not so good for trick or treating. Make sure costumes are flame retardant, try to stay away from masks that inhibit good vision, and leave the sharp weapon-like accessories at home. Try non-toxic make up and foam accessories is necessary

• Safety in numbers. The more the merrier is usually the case anyways so encourage kids to group-up to go door-to-door. Parents can buddy-up with small children and their parents as well. It is a better idea to stay in a group and communicate.

• Follow the light. Stay away from dark streets and alleyways and stick to the well-lit areas, for motorists and children’s safety alike. Only trick-or-treat at homes where the porch light is on.

• Follow childhood rules. Don’t talk to strangers, never walk into a home or get into a car. Remember stop-drop-and-roll. Walk – don’t run across the street. Call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency, payphones work if a cell phone is not available.

• Save the candy for later. Children should not eat candy until parents have had a chance to look over it. Parents should look closely for spoiled, unwrapped, or suspicious candies and throw them away. Throw candies if not age appropriate and could cause choking.